Ontario's Minister of Research and Innovation Reza Moridi (standing) helped announce a new agreement between Bruce Power and Nordion that will secure the long-term supply of Cobalt-60, which can be used to treat people with cancer.
(Photo submitted)Ontario's Minister of Research and Innovation Reza Moridi (standing) helped announce a new agreement between Bruce Power and Nordion that will secure the long-term supply of Cobalt-60, which can be used to treat people with cancer. (Photo submitted)
Midwestern

Bruce Power Signs Agreement For Isotope Supply

Bruce Power is part of a new agreement to supply an important cancer-treating isotope.

Nordion and Bruce Power have announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding for the supply of medical-grade Cobalt. This type of Cobalt-60 is produced in a limited number of nuclear reactors and used in radiation-based treatment of cancer and other diseases in Canada and around the world.

For over six decades, Nordion’s supply of medical-grade Cobalt has come primarily from the National Research Universal reactor at Chalk River, Ontario.

Recognizing that in a few years the NRU reactor will reach its end of life, this MOU will lead to the development of a new source of supply from Bruce Power, building on existing technology and practices.

"While Bruce Power is mostly known for generating electricity, we are very proud of the work we do with Nordion," says Duncan Hawthorne, [president and CEO of Bruce Power. "From our Bruce B facility, we currently supply Nordion with Cobalt-60 that is used to sterilize medical supplies, keeping hospitals around the world clean and safe. This MOU builds on our strong relationship and recognizes our shared desire to develop a stable, additional supply source for this important isotope."

Scott McIntosh, president of Gamma Technologies and Corporate Services, Nordion states, "Securing a new supply is a key milestone for both companies. We’re using promising new technology in Bruce Power’s reactors, adding to the contribution they will make through Ontario’s Long-Term Energy Plan."

McIntosh added, "With limited supply available for the market, Nordion is acutely aware of how important it is, for our customers and for patients globally, that we secure a new long-term supply of medical- grade Cobalt."

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